Cranberry Orange Sauce is a delightful addition to your holiday table, bringing a burst of tangy flavor and vibrant color to any dish. I still remember the first time I made this sauce for Thanksgiving—my family was amazed by how easy and delicious it was. It’s a simple dish, but it elevates your meal and pairs beautifully with turkey or ham.
What makes this sauce special is its balance of sweet and tart flavors. The fresh cranberries combined with zesty oranges create a bright, refreshing contrast, while the hint of cinnamon adds warmth. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday gathering or just as a seasonal treat, it’s a crowd-pleaser.
Why you’ll love cranberry orange sauce
- Quick to prepare with minimal ingredients
- Bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant color
- Make-ahead option for stress-free entertaining
- Versatile for various dishes beyond Thanksgiving
- Budget-friendly with simple staples
What ingredients do I need for cranberry orange sauce?
- Fresh cranberries
- Oranges
- Sugar
- Water
- Cinnamon (optional)
Ingredient notes & swaps: Fresh cranberries are crucial for that tartness, but you can use frozen cranberries if you can’t find fresh. Adjust sugar to taste if you prefer a less sweet sauce. Be mindful of allergens—this sauce is generally safe, but always verify specific dietary needs.
How do I make cranberry orange sauce step-by-step?
To make cranberry orange sauce, you’ll combine fresh cranberries, orange zest and juice, sugar, and water, then cook until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens. It’s that easy!
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and place them in a saucepan.
- Zest and juice the oranges, then add both the zest and juice to the saucepan.
- Add sugar and water to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- If desired, add a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before serving. Store in the refrigerator if making ahead for Thanksgiving.
Pro Tip: If you want a smoother sauce, blend the mixture after it cools. Visual doneness cue: Expect the sauce to bubble gently, with cranberries popping and releasing their juices, creating a thick, glossy texture.
How should I serve it?
Cranberry orange sauce is incredibly versatile. Serve it alongside roasted turkey or ham for a touch of sweetness. You can also dollop it over cream cheese on a cracker for a festive appetizer. For an elegant touch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like mint or a few whole cranberries for garnish.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
Absolutely! This sauce can be made a few days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you freeze it, it will last for about three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or gently warm it on the stove, stirring until heated through.
How do I fix common issues?
If your sauce turns out too thick, simply stir in a little water to reach your desired consistency. If it’s too bland, add more sugar or a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. For a too sweet sauce, a splash of lemon juice can help balance it out.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to experiment with your cranberry orange sauce! You might add chopped apples or pears for extra sweetness, or swap in other spices like nutmeg or ginger for a different flavor profile. To make it more festive, consider adding a splash of bourbon or orange liqueur for an adult twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cranberries?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh. They may release more liquid, so you might need to cook a little longer to thicken the sauce.
Is it possible to make it sugar-free?
You can try using a sugar substitute or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup. Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Can I add other fruits?
Absolutely! Fruits like blueberries or raspberries can complement the cranberries nicely and add unique flavors to the sauce.
Cranberry Orange Sauce
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and place them in a saucepan.
- Zest and juice the oranges, then add both the zest and juice to the saucepan.
- Add sugar and water to the saucepan.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the mixture thickens.
- If desired, add a dash of cinnamon for extra flavor.
- Remove from heat and allow to cool before serving.
- Serve alongside roasted turkey or ham, or dollop over cream cheese on crackers for an appetizer.
- For an elegant touch, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or whole cranberries for garnish.